Chief Financial Officer

Executive
Location:Cleveland, WIHourly: CompetitiveWork type: Direct Hire - Full Time
Date Posted:
Apply
Job ID: BH860801928

Job Description

Summary
Lakeshore College has exclusively retained The QTI Group to lead the search for a Chief Financial Officer who will serve as a trusted financial advisor to college leadership, providing accurate financial analysis, recommendations, and guidance to support institutional decision-making and long-term financial sustainability. This leader will oversee the Finance Department, providing strategic direction and leadership across accounting, budgeting, auditing, debt management, and fixed asset management, while fostering a culture of exceptional customer service and responsiveness for internal and external stakeholders.
 
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Strategic Financial Leadership (75%)
  • Serve as a strategic financial advisor to the Vice President of Administration, President, and College leadership, providing financial analysis, recommendations, and guidance to support institutional decision-making and long-term financial sustainability.
  • Develop and implement the College’s financial strategy in alignment with institutional goals, strategic priorities, and long-term financial objectives.
  • Lead and oversee the annual budgeting process, including budget development, modifications, financial projections, forecasts, assumptions, and required budget documents and reports.
  • Develop and maintain financial forecasts, historical financial data, and short- and long-term financial models; monitor financial performance, analyze variances and trends, and develop options and recommendations related to resource allocation and balancing the budget.
  • Direct and coordinate managerial and financial reporting, including financial statements, budget reports, forecasts, cost allocation reports, and other reports required by the state, WTCS, and other external agencies.
  • Oversee the College’s financial systems, including the ERP financial module and budgeting software, ensuring accurate financial data, effective reporting, system integrity, and efficient financial processes.
  • Oversee the College’s cash flow, banking, investments, liquidity, and debt management, including long-term debt planning, debt issuance, repayment schedules, and related financial obligations.
  • Provide financial leadership for capital planning and capital projects, including funding strategies, capital budgets, financial scenarios, and long-term capital needs.
  • Establish and implement financial policies, procedures, and internal controls; interpret and apply applicable accounting standards, state directives, WTCS requirements, and federal and state regulations to ensure financial compliance and manage financial risk.
  • Oversee procurement and purchasing services and ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and College policies.
  • Represent the College’s Finance function within the College and with community, state, and regional organizations, including participation in the WTCS Business Officers group.
Financial Management, Auditing and GASB/FASB Implementation (25%)
  • Oversee internal and external audits, including coordination with auditors, preparation of audit materials, and implementation and monitoring of audit recommendations.
  • Lead the preparation and publishing of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), including annual financial statements, footnotes, and statistical reports; submit ACFR to the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) award program.
  • Prepare and review annual financial statements, footnotes, and statistical reports in accordance with governmental accounting standards and WTCS requirements.
  • Interpret and implement GASB, FASB, AICPA, WTCS, and other applicable accounting standards and requirements; analyze the financial and reporting impact of new standards and principles and ensure appropriate implementation.
  • Oversee the reconciliation of budgetary statements to GAAP financial statements for audit and financial reporting purposes.
  • Reconcile budgetary statements to GAAP financial statements for audit and financial reporting purposes.
  • Act as fiscal agent for WILM.
  • Manage the Finance Department budget, including monitoring actual results against planned budget performance and providing budget justification as needed.
MANAGER ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Responsible for the direction, coordination, supervision, and performance management of team members.
  • Set clear expectations by establishing roles, responsibilities, and setting goals for team members.
  • Monitor and assess performance, holding team members accountable and providing ongoing feedback.
  • Provide guidance and support through training, mentoring, and open communication.
  • Carry out managerial responsibilities in accordance with the College’s policies and procedures.
  • Collaborate with other departments to ensure cohesive college operations.
  • Address and resolve any conflicts or issues that arise in a timely manner.
  • Foster a positive and productive work environment encouraging teamwork and recognizing achievements.
  • Develop team members by identifying strengths, creating development plans, and offering growth opportunities.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related discipline required.
  • Eight to nine years of progressive leadership and management experience, including enterprise-level operational oversight and demonstrated experience in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting in an educational or public-sector setting required.
  • Knowledge of public sector generally accepted accounting principles and reporting standards as promulgated by GASB.
  • Experience planning, implementing, and monitoring budgets within an educational setting.
  • Familiarity with educational settings, general public relations, and the mission of technical colleges.
  • Extensive experience in higher education administration in a technical/community college setting.
  • Extensive working knowledge and experience of federal, WTCS, and local regulations pertaining to finance, facilities, and procurement.
  • Registered certified public accountant (CPA) preferred.
Annual Salary Range: $122,283 - $143,874, based on experience and qualifications. 
 
Location: On-Site. Cleveland, Wisconsin campus.

Application Deadline: Until filled.